Protein translocation: tunnel vision

Article Abstract:

Protein transport across the endoplasmic reticulum membrane in eukaryotes and the cytoplasmic membrane in prokaryotes occurs through a hydrophilic channel that is part of a protein translocation machine. The channel also integrates membrane proteins into the lipid bilayer while coordinating a large number of different functions. Moreover, the channel acts as a passive conduit for polypeptides and associates with other components that determine translocation and the directionality of movement through the channel.

Research elucidates the mechanism of avian leukosis viral entry which, deviates from the known mechanism operating in influenza A virus. Data point out that the receptor interaction results in the conversion of a pH-insensitive avian viral envelope glycoprotein to respond to low pH conditions favoring the retroviral entry.